Summer is finally here! The weather is getting warmer, plants
are in full bloom, and everyone’s getting ready to spend some quality time with
their backyard. As you prepare to welcome friends, family members, and
neighbors over for games and grilling, make sure your space is ready for
entertaining with these options.
Set Up a Firepit with Seating
Sure, you can pull up a few chairs around a firepit when you
feel like having a bonfire, but wouldn’t you rather create a permanent hangout
spot? There are countless options for affordable, aesthetically pleasing
firepits that are built-in or portable. Once you pick one, get a set of outdoor
furniture that remains permanently around the firepit. For example, consider a
wicker couch or loveseat with removable cushions.
Prepare for Outdoor Grilling, Cooking, or Bartending
No outdoor party would be complete without food – whether you’re
serving a full meal or finger food for the kids, you’re going to want an
outdoor cooking space. You can go all in and build a full kitchen in your back
yard complete with a dining set. Or you can opt for the classic grill and patio
furniture combo. Be sure to keep all your cooking utensils in one
easy-to-access place, so you’re not scrambling to find something.
Consider too setting up a bar or designated drink area. For example, you
can opt for a portable island, build your own Tiki bar, or use a picnic bench
reserved for mixers, drink accompaniments, and glassware.
Invest in Some Fun, Charming Lights
Hanging lights and lanterns are a backyard’s best friend. Light
up your outdoor spaces by hanging strands of lights along your fence, across a
pergola, or between your deck posts. Don’t go overboard, or your backyard will
light up like the sun late in the evening but don’t skimp on lights, or guests
will have a hard time finding their way around. You can find several different
types of lighting to fit your style and backyard to make the space your own.
Designate A Game Spot
Croquet, cornhole, bocce ball, ladder toss, horseshoes…. The list of fun backyard games goes on and
on. These are all affordable games you can set up to entertain adults and
children all summer long.
By designating a specific area for games, you can keep
everything in one place (and avoid an errant ball knocking over glasses on the
table!) and create different activity areas for guests to choose from.
Reserve a Quiet Space for Chatting
If you’re hosting a big party, different groups of guests will
start to form. Some might dive into your gaming corner while others hop right
into making drinks. For your guests who would prefer a quiet corner to catch
up, we recommend building a separate space with a couple of chairs and a table
a bit further back from the rowdier areas in your backyard.
Get Set for an Outdoor Movie Night
All you need to host a movie night in your backyard is a sheet
and a projector. Hang a big sheet on a wall of your home, and
you’re in business! All you need to complete the evening is some popcorn, cold
drinks, picnic blankets or chairs, and the right summer flick.
Focus on Your Greenery
Beautiful backyards are often the lushest, vibrant ones. If
you’re going to be doing a lot of entertaining, make sure your backyard
greenery is up to snuff. Consider planting bold and colorful annuals or create
a butterfly garden to delight guests. If you have a green thumb and love
gardening, you can even plant fruits, vegetables, and herbs right near your
deck or patio.
Build-in Some Lounging Options
Swinging benches, hammocks, and reclining chairs are all welcome
outdoor additions when the weather gets hot. Create some places perfect for
guests – and your family – to lounge throughout the summer months. Make sure to
place these in a shady spot or add an umbrella to avoid sitting in direct
sunlight for too long.
Create the backyard you’ll want to spend most of the summer in with these tips. In no time, you’ll have a beautifully crafted space perfect for entertaining your family, friends, and neighbors. Enjoy the summer!
